Algeria make approach for highly rated RC Lens teenager Mezian Mesloub

The Federation algerienne de football (FAF) has contacted the father of RC Lens prospect Mezian Mesloub about a possible future call-up for Algeria and a change of sporting nationality, according to winwin.

Mesloub, who is 16 and has made two appearances this season, recording one assist, is regarded as one of the emerging talents attracting the federation’s attention.

The midfielder made a significant impression in the Champions League on Thursday, entering for the final 30 minutes at the Fortuna Arena. His assist helped secure a 3-2 comeback victory against Slavia Prague.

Mesloub is primarily a dynamic central midfielder but can also operate in a more advanced role or on the right flank. His performance earned praise from his coach, Dino Toppmoller, after the match.

His display also attracted attention in Spain. Mundo Deportivo described the teenager as a player already making an impact on the biggest stage.

“The adolescent, who will celebrate his 17th birthday on 8 November, made his Champions League debut with the impact generated by all the expectations surrounding him,” the newspaper wrote.

“The introduction of the bold and promising young talent provided the dynamism needed to finally find the way to goal. He appears destined for a brilliant future.”

According to winwin, the FAF has spoken to Mesloub’s father, Walid Mesloub, about the prospect of the player representing Algeria. Walid Mesloub is a former Algeria international with seven caps and has previously coached his son in the Lens Espoirs side.

The approach forms part of what is described as a wider preventative strategy by the FAF to secure players considered to have significant potential before rival national teams become involved.

Mesloub was born in Martigues to a Portuguese mother. He is therefore also eligible to represent Portugal, for whom he has already played at youth level with the Under-16 and Under-17 teams. France could also move to pursue his international allegiance.

The youngster had already produced a decisive moment for RC Lens late last season. On 8 May, he scored the only goal in a 1-0 victory over Nantes that secured the club’s qualification for the Champions League.

That goal came with his first touch, just five seconds after he had been introduced as a substitute.

The latest developments underline the competition for Mesloub’s international future, with Algeria having now made contact while Portugal has already selected him at youth level and France remains another potential option.